Parents that haven't yet made summer travel plans should consider taking off work to travel as a family. Some of life's most cherished memories are formed on family vacations, according to a new survey conducted by Harris Interactive, found at TravelEffect.com.

“It was surprising to learn that some of people's most vivid childhood memories are of family vacations that happened when they were as young as five,” said Regina Corso of Harris Interactive, who conducted the survey of more than 2,500 adults and 1,100 youth for the U.S. Travel Association.   

Key findings include:

• Family vacation memories last a lifetime: Most adults surveyed (62%) said their earliest memories were of family vacations taken when they were between ages five and 10, and they remember childhood trips more clearly than school events or birthday celebrations.

• Like their parents, children cherish family vacation memories: Youth surveyed strongly agreed that they get to see and do things on vacation that they'll remember for a long time (64%) and that vacations bring their family closer together (53%).

• Parents underestimate the value of including grandparents on family vacations: Children who traveled with their extended family reported that they get to spend quality time with their grandparents (78%), they feel closer to them (60%), and they like to remember stories about what they did with their grandparents (65%).

“Ask any parent – or kid – and they'll tell you family vacations not only are the best times they have together but create the most lasting memories,” said Eileen Ogintz, author of the syndicated column and website TakingtheKids.com and a nationally recognized family travel expert. “The more you involve the kids in the planning, and the simpler the itinerary, the happier everyone will be.”    

About Travel Effect

Travel Effect is a campaign of the U.S. Travel Association, the national, non-profit organization representing all components of the travel industry that generates $2 trillion in economic output and supports 14.6 million jobs. U.S. Travel's mission is to increase travel to and within the United States.  www.traveleffect.com

Media contact:  April Nichols, 646-554-4295 or april@violetcommunications.com